Harriet Harman highlights labour pains in push for MP 'baby leave'

MPs should be given "baby leave", which would allow them to nominate colleagues to cast House of Commons votes on their behalf while they are caring for their child, Harriet Harman has said.

The former Labour deputy leader said MPs should also get six months' paid leave, in line with the Civil Service, and be able to nominate a full-time paid "maternity cover" representative for their work outside the Commons.

Ms Harman pointed out that 17 babies had been born to women MPs since 2010 and they had not benefited from a system of leave.